Captain Marvel

Mick McCarthy'S decision to install Darren Potter as stand in skipper ahead of Gary Breen, Jackie Mac, Matt murray of Seyi Olofinjana for the black country derby raised more than a few eyebrows at Molineux on Sunday.

But the young midfielder, still only 20 led from the front, guiding the team who despite including veteran Breen, still only averaged 23 years of age to a fine victory over their local rivals.

Talking to the club's official site, McCarthy spoke of his admiration for the way Potter handled the extra responsibility.

'Potts deserved the captaincy and I know how much of an honour it was for him,'

'He's brave in possession and makes us play. That extra bit of responsibility can inspire some people and I think it will help him to know that I see him as someone who can captain the team.

'He's not got vast experience and people forget that he's still learning his trade. He's only played 20 more games than Mark Little who is regarded as a rookie.

'Being the captain isn't always about someone shouting from the back. It's also about the way you go about your job.
'Bravery comes in all forms and when the going gets tough he keeps passing the ball. I could get anyone who would just lump it.

'When he came here he got a bit of stick but he wasn't playing in his natural central position because Seyi Olofinjana and Karl Henry were outstanding there. But now he is in the centre of midfield people can see what a good player he is.

'I thought he was outstanding against Leeds - the best player on the park.'

If Potter didn't feel proud before, he should do now.

Carrying the Wolves captaincy means following in the footsteps of men like Billy Wright, Mike Bailey, Emlyn Hughes and Paul Ince, legends in the game, not only at Molineux.

Joining that kind of roll call is quite an achievment for a lad barely out of his teens.

Congratulations Potts on a job well done!

Click here to join in the debate on the club forum.